Ambreen Ali

MSc Information Systems and Information Management 2015

United Kingdom

How did you hear about Leeds University Business School and why did you choose to study here?

After graduating, I decided to continue with my studies and do a postgraduate degree. As I live in West Yorkshire, I wanted to come to a university that was close to home, as I lived away for my undergraduate degree. I wanted a highly successful, rich-in-research university and found Leeds University Business School to be the first choice for me.

Tell us about your course – why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here?

I studied a BSc (Hons) Information Systems for my undergraduate degree, which was a very technical, IT-based degree. I studied IT and also Business Studies in my A-levels and after my undergraduate degree I started to miss the business side to IT. My Masters course led on from my IT degree very well as IT and Business often go hand in hand. After graduating I will have knowledge of both sides, which is integral to understanding business processes successfully.

Did you receive a scholarship to study here?

Yes I was awarded the Martin Scicluna scholarship. I applied for it as I wanted to support myself financially as a graduate. Being awarded the scholarship meant so much to me, it made me more motivated to achieve the best for myself, and make my family and the Business School proud.

What was the best part of your studies – what did you enjoy the most?

I enjoyed the networking events with the Leaders in Residence as it gave me knowledge of many different organisations in the area of IT and Business, while also getting to know a variety of inspirational individuals. I also became more confident in networking with people I had never met before. Furthermore, I made sure I took part in challenges in the Business School, such as the Leeds Leaders’ Challenge where I worked in a group to consult on a project for ITV. I enjoyed collaborating and working on a presentation for ITV, meeting different Masters students, and developing my team-working skills.

What were your career aspirations?

My aspiration is to be an IT consultant, so studying my Masters degree and taking part in as many opportunities as possible during my time at the Business School has definitely helped me in working towards my goal. I have developed my interpersonal skills, communication skills, team-working skills, and overall confidence. I can match my previous technical experience with the business modules and expand my understanding when attempting to solve consultancy-related problems.

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your study at the Business School that you can tell us about?

I presented in front of a group of Leaders in Residence, lecturers, and students to discuss Mobile Technology. I presented on a panel and I took part in the ITV Leeds Leaders’ Challenge.

What was your experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the city of Leeds and the Yorkshire region?

Leeds University Business School makes you feel rewarded for doing well in your undergraduate degree and I found the facilities to be exceptional. With modern rooms and equipment, the Business School had a positive and open feel throughout the building which always made me feel relaxed and helped me to concentrate during lecturers. The staff were beyond brilliant; our professors had highly in-depth and wide-ranging knowledge of their subject, and provided exciting and detailed lecture materials throughout the year. I have made some amazing friends at Leeds University, both on my course and throughout the Management Division, and I will definitely keep in contact with them after graduation.

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you have particularly enjoyed?

I have generally enjoyed every aspect of studying in Leeds. The nightlife is really fun with a big group of friends and the cultural aspects of Leeds are fantastic too, with the Leeds City Museum and Art Gallery being in walking distance of the city.

Would you recommend the Business School to others who are considering studying here?

I would most certainly recommend Leeds University Business School to anyone wanting to study for a postgraduate qualification. I have enjoyed my work and social life and will never forget my experiences at the Business School.